The Hunter's Call: Charting a Course Through California's Diverse Hunting Seasons

The California Hunting Guide

California, a state renowned for its golden sunshine and diverse landscapes, offers more than just picturesque views. For the avid hunter, it presents a rich tapestry of opportunities, a year-round call to the wild that shifts with the seasons, offering a unique pursuit for nearly every preference. From the misty redwood forests to the arid southern deserts and the towering Sierra Nevada, the Golden State’s hunting calendar is a dynamic journey. This isn't just a list of dates; it's an invitation to explore, to participate in time-honored traditions, and to connect with the wilderness on a profound level. Hunting In California What to Hunt Where to Hunt Licensing Fees Hunter Education Certificate Youth Hunting Trapping

What To Hunt In California

Hunters in California have many options, from furbearing mammals and small game to large game and trophy species.

Deer Hunting In California

California has six mule deer subspecies that can be found in high desert foothills, in the mountains along the coast, high in alpine meadows, and other areas around different parts of California. Most hunting zones in California run from August through October, with specified seasons for archery hunting with a hunting bow. Check out our California Deer Hunting page for more information.

Bear Hunting In California

The Black Bear is abundant in California. The season is longer than deer season, and part of bear season runs concurrently with deer season. Bear season starts in August or September, and typically runs through late December, or when 1,700 bears have been reported as harvested. Check out our Bear Hunting Page for more information.

Pronghorn Antelope Hunting In California

Pronghorn are found mostly in the northeast region of the state. There are limited opportunities available for hunting pronghorn in California, and you must apply for a tag through the big game draw system. Pronghorn season is typically in August or September.

Elk Hunting In California

Elk hunting opportunities in California is very limited, with a limited number of draw tags available. Elk populations in California have been increasing the last several years. Elk can be found in Northern California, in western Central California, as well as the Inland Deserts Region.

Wild Boar Hunting In California

Wild pigs, or wild boars, are a very destructive species in California, and for most land owners are considered a nuiscance. You can hunt them year round. Wild pigs can be found west of the Central Valley, from Mendocino to San Luis Obispo counties. They also have special pig hunts at several areas, such as Camp Roberts, Carizzo Plains Ecological Reserve, San Antonio Valley Ecological Reserve, Tehama Wildlife Area, and Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area. Check out our Wild Boar Hunting Page for more information.

Waterfowl Hunting In California

California has a large variety of waterfowl species. Such as goose, duck, scaup, and black brant. They can typically be hunted during late fall and early spring months. Check out our Waterfowl Hunting Page for more information.

Upland Game Bird Hunting In California

California has many different types of game bird species. Some of the top ones for hunters are the wild turkey, pheasant, quail, chukar, and grouse. Turkey have two seasons, one in the fall and one in the spring. Turkey and quail can be found in many areas throughout the state.Other California game species like Bighorn Sheep, Small Game Mammals, Raccoon, Turkey, etc. are found in the "California Hunting Seasons" section at the bottom of the page. A nice additional to help you cook a turkey, is to buy a nice turkery fryer. Have turkey ready and on the table in about 45 minutes. Top Hunting Gear and Supplies at this link.

Where To Hunt In California

Due to the large amout of open land space in California, there are a large number of areas available for public hunting. A great tool to have in your hunting arsenal are nice GPS and Hunting Map, which are available at this link.

Hunting On Wildlife Areas and Ecological Reserves In California

California has over 1,000,000 acres of wildlife areas and ecological reserves, which are supported by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. These areas are subject to their own regulations and hunting restrictions.

Hunting On US Forest Service Lands In California

The US Forest Service has lands available to hunt in CA that provide great hunting opportunities with lots of different species of animals to hunt. Hunting On Bureau of Land Management Lands In CaliforniaAlmost all of the California BLM lands are open to hunting and shooting. On these lands throughout the state, you may find any of the huntable species available for hunting in California, depending on which part of the state that you are in. There are over 100,000,000 acres of BLM hunting land in California, and about 99% of it is able to be hunted.

California Hunting Clubs

Various privately owned hunting clubs exist in California. These clubs must follow all state and federal hunting regulations, and they might even have additional restrictions in place in addition to the state and federal regulations. These clubs are expensive to join, and to maintain membership each year, but many of them provide great hunting opportunities that you just can’t get on public lands.

California Hunting Licensing Fees

A hunting license is required for any person to be able to hunt wildlife in California. There is no minimum age to get a hunting license, but the completion of a hunter’s education course is required. The hunting license fees below were accurate at the time of writing this article, but the fees do change every year, they almost always go up. On top of hunting license fees, for many of the animals there is also a hunting tag that must also be purchased. Some of the tags do have age restrictions with a common age restriction being 12 years old or older. Resident Hunting License $51.02 Nonresident Hunting License $178.20 Junior Hunting License $13.53 One Day Nonresident Hunting License $51.02 Disabled Veteran Reduced Fee Hunting License $7.73 Duplicate Hunting License $11.37

California Hunter Education Certificate

California requires hunters to take the hunters education training and obtain the education for any hunter who has never held a California hunting license or hunting education certificate. If you have a hunting license from another state issued within the prior two years, you may be exempt from this requirement. You can take classes online, take classes in person, or a hybrid class of online and in person. More info can be found on the California Fish and Wildlife website.

Youth Hunting In California

Throughout the year, California fish and wildlife does designate certain days as youth hunting days. Youth hunters must be licensed just like adult hunters. There is no minimum age for purchasing a hunting license. The special youth hunts are a great opportunity for young hunters to get the chance of a lifetime to hunt in trophy hunting grounds that are not available to most hunters, or during certain times. This is a great opportunity to get young hunters excited about the sport of hunting in California.

Trapping in California

Trapping is generally prohibited in California. It is unlawful for any person to trap any fur bearing mammal or nongame mammal with any body gripping trap. This includes both commercial and recreational trapping. Special licensing is typically available for persons who trap fur bearing or nongame mammals for pest control purposes.

The Awakening: Spring Gobblers and Early Hopes

As winter's chill recedes and hillsides burst into green, the California hunter’s year often finds its first crescendo with the spring turkey season. Typically commencing in late March and extending through early May, the pursuit of a gobbling tom is a thrilling ritual. The air, crisp and new, carries the tell-tale sounds that quicken the pulse. Archery enthusiasts often enjoy an extended season, offering a quieter, more intimate challenge. This period reminds us of nature's renewal and the hunter's patient role within it.

Summer's Approach: Scouting, Anticipation, and Early Starts

While the heat of summer might seem like an off-season for some, it's a crucial time for preparation, scouting new territories, and for those pursuing specific game. For wild pig, the season never truly closes, offering a year-round challenge across their expanding range. This is also when anticipation builds for the fall, and for some deer hunters, the wait isn't long. Certain archery deer seasons, particularly in coastal and southern zones (like some A and D zones), can open as early as July, offering a unique, warm-weather big game experience.

Autumn's Bounty: The Heart of the Hunt

Ask any California hunter about their favorite time of year, and many will speak with reverence of autumn. This is when the state’s hunting calendar truly comes alive. Big Game in Focus: Deer season is paramount. Archery seasons typically transition to general rifle seasons starting from August in some zones and extending through October or even November in others, depending on the specific X, A, B, C, or D zone. The pursuit of black-tailed deer in the coastal ranges or mule deer in the eastern Sierra is a Californian classic. Bear seasons generally open in mid-August for archery, with the general season following, often running until late December or until harvest quotas are met. For those fortunate enough to draw a coveted tag, elk and pronghorn antelope seasons also unfold in late summer and early fall, offering a premier big game adventure in specific, managed units. Upland Birds Take Flight: Dove season traditionally kicks off September 1st, marking an exciting start for many bird hunters. As fall progresses, seasons for various quail species (California, Gambel's, and Mountain) open, typically from mid-October through late January, with nuances based on specific quail zones. The distinctive call of the chukar and the explosion of a pheasant flush also become focal points from October/November through December or January. Grouse seasons in designated northern counties offer a more alpine experience in early to mid-fall.

Winter's Embrace: Waterfowl and Lingering Opportunities

As days shorten and a chill returns to the air, the focus for many shifts to the wetlands and waterways. California is a vital part of the Pacific Flyway, and its waterfowl seasons are a major draw. From October through January (with specific dates varying significantly by zones like the Northeastern, Southern San Joaquin Valley, Southern California, Colorado River, and Balance of State), hunters can pursue a variety of ducks and geese. Special youth and veteran hunt days often extend these opportunities. Upland pursuits continue with ongoing quail and chukar seasons. For small game enthusiasts, rabbit (cottontail, brush, snowshoe hare) seasons often run from summer through late January, while tree squirrel seasons typically span from September to January. Jackrabbits remain a year-round option. Even some furbearer seasons, like for raccoon, are active during these cooler months.

Year-Round and Specialized Pursuits

Beyond the main seasons, California offers continuous hunting for animals like wild pig and jackrabbit. For those seeking unique experiences, limited and highly regulated draw hunts for desert bighorn sheep occur, representing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The Hunter's Responsibility: More Than Just a Date

It's crucial to remember that this overview is a narrative, not a rulebook. California’s hunting regulations are detailed and can change. Seasons are often highly specific to zones, with precise opening and closing dates, bag limits, and tag requirements. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is the ultimate authority.

Key considerations for any California hunt include:

Official Regulations: Always obtain and meticulously review the current year's official CDFW hunting regulation booklets for mammals and birds. These are available online and at license vendors. Licenses and Tags: A valid California hunting license is mandatory, along with specific tags for big game (deer, bear, pig, elk, pronghorn, sheep) and validations for upland game birds and waterfowl (including federal duck stamps). Non-Lead Ammunition: California requires non-lead ammunition for taking any wildlife with a firearm. Zone Consciousness: Understand your specific hunting zone, as dates and rules vary dramatically. Ethical and Safe Hunting: Adherence to fair chase principles, firearm safety, and respect for the land and wildlife are paramount.

Your California Adventure Awaits

The hunting seasons in California offer a rich tapestry of experiences, woven through the state's stunningly diverse ecosystems. From the patient wait for a spring gobbler to the crisp autumn pursuit of deer or the dynamic action of a waterfowl hunt, there's a unique adventure calling. Before you answer that call, your most important step is to visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website (wildlife.ca.gov). There, you will find the precise, up-to-date information that ensures your hunt is legal, safe, and responsible. Embrace the journey, respect the resource, and discover the unique spirit of hunting in the Golden State.

California's Call of the Wild: A Hunter's Calendar Across Diverse Terrains (2025-2026 Seasons)

California, a state renowned for its stunningly varied landscapes – from the rugged Sierra Nevada to the sun- drenched southern deserts, fertile central valleys, and misty coastal ranges – offers a hunting calendar as diverse and rich as its ecosystems. For the prepared hunter, the 2025-2026 seasons unfold a year-round tapestry of pursuits, each demanding skill, respect for the quarry, and a deep understanding of the regulations that govern these wild places. This isn't just a list of dates; it's an invitation to explore the Golden State's unique hunting heritage, a journey that follows the rhythm of the seasons and the ancient call of the wild.

The Autumn Rush: A Bounty of Big Game and Upland Challenges

As summer's heat begins to wane, California's hunting seasons gain momentum. Late summer and fall are prime times for some of the state's most sought-after game. Big Game Beckons: The pursuit of deer is a cornerstone of California hunting. Archery seasons often commence as early as July in some coastal A zones, with most B, C, D, and X zones seeing archery hunters afield in August and September. General rifle seasons typically follow, opening from August in some areas and extending through September, October, and even November depending on the specific zone. Whether it's black-tailed deer in the oak woodlands or mule deer in the high desert, careful attention to California's complex zone system is paramount. For those seeking a formidable challenge, black bear seasons generally open with archery in mid-August, followed by the general season in October, running until late December or until harvest quotas are met. The coveted tags for elk (Rocky Mountain, Tule, and Roosevelt) and pronghorn antelope are primarily available through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) draw system, with hunts typically scheduled between August and November in specific units. Patience and luck in the draw can lead to an unforgettable experience pursuing these majestic animals. Similarly, Nelson bighorn sheep hunts are exceptionally limited, a once-in-a-lifetime draw for the arid mountain ranges, usually occurring between August and December. Upland Birds Take Flight: The iconic September 1st opener for mourning and white-winged dove signals the true start of the fall bird hunting traditions for many. As autumn deepens, quail (California, Gambel's, and mountain) seasons open, often with an earlier start for mountain quail in designated zones around mid- September, and general seasons for all quail kicking off in mid to late October and running through late January. The challenging chukar shares a similar timeframe, typically from mid-October. For those who venture into the forests, sooty/blue and ruffed grouse seasons usually run for a month from mid-September to mid-October in designated northern counties. Keep an eye out for the short white-tailed ptarmigan season in mid-September for a unique alpine hunt. Band-tailed pigeon seasons are generally split, occurring in September and/or December depending on the zone. Small Game Adventures: The rustle in the leaves often signals tree squirrels (gray squirrel), with general seasons typically starting mid-September. Rabbit and varying hare (cottontail, brush, snowshoe) seasons often open earlier, around July 1st, providing ample opportunity through the fall and into winter. Winter's Wings and Whistles: Waterfowl, Pheasants, and Continued Quests As crisp air settles over the valleys and marshes, new opportunities arise, particularly for waterfowl enthusiasts and upland bird hunters. The Pacific Flyway Comes Alive: California is a critical wintering ground along the Pacific Flyway, and duck and goose hunting is a cherished tradition. Seasons are highly zone-dependent (Northeastern, Southern San Joaquin Valley, Southern California, Colorado River, and Balance of State), generally opening in October and running through late January. For the 2025-2026 season, waterfowl hunters will be pleased with the notable increase in the pintail daily bag limit to three birds. Federal and state duck stamps are, of course, essential. Coots and common moorhens seasons usually run concurrently with duck seasons. The Ringneck Rise: The vibrant pheasant is a favorite, with its general season typically kicking off in early November and running through late December. The sight of a cackling rooster breaking cover is a classic California upland experience. Quail and chukar seasons continue through the winter months, offering dedicated hunters extended opportunities. Ongoing Small Game: Rabbit and tree squirrel seasons generally continue into January, providing sport when other seasons may have closed. Spring's Echoes: The Gobble Heard 'Round the Woods When the landscape begins to reawaken, the focus for many hunters shifts to one charismatic bird. Wild Turkey Traditions: The spring wild turkey season is a highlight for many. Bearded birds are the target, with a general season typically commencing the last Saturday in March and running through early May. Archery-only and special youth hunt opportunities often extend the season. A smaller fall turkey season also occurs, usually in November.

Year-Round Pursuits and Other Game

Some species offer more extended opportunities, while others require specific attention to regulations. The Elusive Wild Pig: For a truly year-round challenge, wild pig hunting is open across the state with the appropriate license and tags. These cunning animals can be found in a variety of habitats, testing a hunter's tracking and stalking skills. Jackrabbits: Black-tailed and white-tailed jackrabbits are generally open for hunting year-round. Furbearers and Nongame: Species like raccoon have defined hunting seasons, often running from fall through spring, varying by region. Coyotes are generally open to hunting year-round in many areas, though local ordinances should always be checked. It's critical to consult the specific furbearer and nongame mammal regulations, as trapping seasons and methods are also detailed by CDFW. Importantly, the bobcat hunting season remains closed in California.

The California Hunting Ethos: Responsibility and Respect

Hunting in California comes with a unique set of responsibilities. Non-Lead Ammunition: A critical regulation is the statewide requirement for non-lead ammunition when taking any wildlife with a firearm. This conservation measure protects scavenging wildlife. Know Before You Go: The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (wildlife.ca.gov) is the ultimate resource. Hunters must possess a valid California hunting license and any required tags, stamps, or validations for their target species. Thoroughly understanding specific zone boundaries, season dates, bag limits, and shooting hours is essential. Conservation Stewards: Hunters play a vital role in conservation through license and tag fees that support wildlife management and habitat restoration. Ethical, fair-chase hunting practices ensure that wildlife populations continue to thrive for future generations.

The Unending Call

From the first light hitting a frosty tule marsh to the silent tension of a deer stalk in the chaparral, California's hunting seasons offer an unparalleled connection to the natural world. It’s a call to adventure, a test of skill, and a chance to partake in a tradition as old as the landscape itself. Heed the call, prepare diligently, and embrace the diverse hunting heritage of the Golden State. Disclaimer: This article provides a general overview of California hunting seasons for 2025-2026 based on available information. Seasons, bag limits, and regulations are subject to change and vary significantly by species, zone, and specific hunt conditions. Always consult the official California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations booklets and website for the most current and detailed information before planning any hunting activity. About The Author Mike Mendenhall is the the founder of Mendenhall Outdoors. This website is an extension of the Mendenhall family’s lifestyle and passion for the great outdoors. Everything that they learn, and experience, along the way that they find may be valuable to our website visitors is on the site for you to enjoy. We highlight products and services that you might find interesting. We frequently receive free products from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. If you click a link on this page, then go on to make a purchase, we might receive a commission – at no extra cost to you, and does not impact the purchase price of any products that you may purchase. The Best California Hunting Guide Experience Awaits!